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Prepare Your Home for Fall

by Kynzy Lowe

The resurgence of everything pumpkin spice means that fall is upon us once again. You are probably as excited to pull out that box of fall décor as we are. If you live in a building (a house, duplex, apartment, condo, etc..) then there are some other important tasks that should be added to your to-do list to make sure your home is well prepared for the change of season.

  • Have your furnace inspected

Don’t get left in the cold. Fall brings cooler temperatures, shorter days, and earlier sunsets. Ensure that your home stays nice and cozy by having your furnace inspected. Contact your preferred local HVAC company to get your furnace checked out and maintenance, if needed.

  • Clean your gutters

Gutters safely carry water from your roof away from your home’s foundation. Blocked gutters can prevent this water from flowing, causing damage to your home, so it is important to clear out any debris that has built up. You can hire someone to do this, or you can do it yourself. Consider getting gutter guards so that water will flow smoothly without your gutters getting clogged with leaves or other debris.

  • Properly insulate your home

Combat the drop in temperature by making sure your home is properly insulated. The most effective way to keep your home warm is to invest in extra insulation, and there are many different options that vary based on your type of home and specific layout. This can be pricey, but will save money on energy bills in the long run. You can also reduce heat loss by covering windows with blinds and curtains.

  • Check outdoor faucets

Make sure all outdoor faucets are turned off. It might be worth doing now, before winter, to avoid water freezing and bursting pipes. Don’t forget to use insulated covers for exterior water spigots.

  • Bring in outdoor items

Depending on the weather, it may be best to pack up outdoor furniture and other patio items that could get damaged. If you have a pool, it might be time to cover it so that it stays clean until next summer.

Following these tips can help you avoid common problems in the fall and winter. By making sure that your home is well prepared, you can relax and enjoy all that this season has to offer.

Leaves and Trends Change Colors Every Fall: Pantone’s Fall Colors for 2016

by I Am Benchmark

Pantone's Fall Colors for 2016

Fall brings changes to the colors outdoors, but it doesn’t stop there.

Pantone releases their fall colors annually. According to Pantone, this year’s fall color palette represents “a unity of strength, confidence and complexity.” The colors, inspired by “the desire for tranquility, strength and optimism” are led by the Blue family. Each of the individual colors stray from the typical fall shades to make vivacious statements.

 

Riverside - Pantone 17-4028

Riverside is confident and practical. To bring this soothing and stable color into your home, consider napkins that follow the same color theme. Such a sensible shade lasts well through the season for your guests or family around the table.

 

Airy Blue - Pantone 14-4122

The second shade of blue chosen for fall, Airy Blue nods to Serenity, one of the two Pantone colors of the year. This particular blue can easily fit into your home with candles to add a sense of warmth. Just like many of the other fall colors, Airy Blue is relatively easy to incorporate into your home and through the seasons.

 

Sharkskin - Pantone 17-3914

If you’re looking to add a sharp and contemporary look in your home, check out Sharkskin. This color is bold, but natural. The edgy grey tone pairs well with bright or muted colors making it ideal in the form of sheets.

 

Aurora Red - Pantone 18-1550

There’s no doubt that shades of red grab everyone’s attention. Aurora Red is one that’s warm and pleasing to the eye. To add this rich color to your kitchen, consider bright bakeware.

 

Warm Taupe - Pantone 16-1318

Warm Taupe is a shade that pairs well with any of the top 10 Fall colors. The timeless color suggests stability and trust. The versatile shade can be incorporated at your dinner table with a dinnerware set set that can be dressed up with complimentary table decor.

 

Dusty Cedar - Pantone 18-1630

For a welcoming color, look at Dusty Cedar. As temperatures decrease, cozy up in this perfect fall version of pink with a soft blanket. This shade is fit for both fall and winter and the rose undertones will add a unique look to your couch.

 

Lush Meadow - Pantone 18-5845

If you’re searching for a sophisticated and elegant color, turn to Lush Meadow. Show off this vibrant color with natural green coasters. Lush Meadow is the color that let’s you bring the outdoors indoors.

 

Spicy Mustard - Pantone 14-0952

Spicy Mustard is an unexpected color, but the zesty shade brings an uplifting splash of vibrancy. Set the dining table with a runner that brings excitement to a decorative place setting. Spicy Mustard pairs especially well with Riverside, Sharkskin and Potter’s Clay.

 

Potter's Clay - Pantone 18-1340

Potter’s Clay is full of orange undertones that make it perfect for both fall and winter. The earthy shade references the outdoor color changes of fall. Add a pair of taper candles to your dining room or mantle to bring the neutral earth tone indoors.

 

Bodacious - Pantone 17-3240

On the other hand, Bodacious is a more lively and electrifying shade of purple for the fall season. If you’d like to make a statement with this fall color in your living room, choose a soft throw pillow. Just like the rest of the fall palette, Bodacious pairs well with one or all of the colors to add vibrance in your home.

 

Pantone Fall Colors 2016